Filipino Students Represent PH in Global F1 in Schools Competition

SIX talented STEM students from the British School of Manila have arrived in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia to take part in the F1 in Schools Global STEM Challenge, which will take place from November 21 to 28, 2024.

This milestone marks the first time the Philippine Agilas team has competed in the prestigious global competition.

Team Aguilas includes seniors Neo Gatlabayan, Gian Andre Benjamin Gaisano Anggala, Lau Lee Khai (Marcus) and Sophia Margaret Gorospe, as well as junior Aaron Gabriel Chua and sophomore Tara Bahuhandi.

The team, led by its consultant Jenna Storey, is preparing to showcase Philippine innovation on the international stage.

“This is our first time competing and we didn’t know what to expect, but everything is coming together,” said Neo Gatlabayan, managing director and chief engineer of the team. “We’re going to register our cars and we’re done. It’s incredible to be the first Filipino team here.”

Tara Bahuhandi, Head of Marketing and Promotions, expressed her pride in representing the Philippines. “It’s great to see participants from all over the world. Being on the international stage makes me incredibly proud to represent the Philippines in STEM,” she said.

Marcus Lau, CFO and Director of Research and Design, shared his excitement about meeting teams from around the world. “We saw several teams at the airport and it’s great to know we get to compete against so many talented people. I’m looking forward to the experience,” he said.

F1 in Schools is a global, not-for-profit competition that encourages students to develop and demonstrate their STEM skills by designing, building and racing miniature Formula One cars.

Teams are assessed in areas such as vehicle speed, engineering quality, branding, marketing, project management and oral presentation skills, making it a comprehensive platform for young innovators.

Team Agilas’ participation not only highlights the growing importance of STEM education in the Philippines, but also paves the way for more Filipino students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

The team shares news about the competition on their social media pages. (PR)